MUMBAI, India – February 13, 2026
The newly released film O Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, is trending across social media platforms following its theatrical debut. The film draws inspiration from the book Mafia Queens of Mumbai by crime journalist Hussain Zaidi.
While the film dramatizes the underworld saga with cinematic elements, audiences are increasingly curious about the real-life figure behind Triptii Dimri’s character — Sapna Didi.
Who Was Sapna Didi?
Sapna Didi, whose real name was Ashraf, emerged as a controversial figure in Mumbai’s underworld during the late 1980s and early 1990s. According to various media reports and accounts referenced in crime literature, she allegedly sought revenge against fugitive underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim after her husband was reportedly killed on his orders.
Her alleged mission became singular: to eliminate Dawood Ibrahim.
Alliance With Hussain Ustara
In the film, Shahid Kapoor portrays Hussain Ustara, a rival gangster. Reports suggest that in real life, Ustara and Sapna Didi shared a common adversary in Dawood Ibrahim.
It is widely claimed that Ustara helped train Sapna Didi and supported her efforts to challenge D-Company’s influence. Together, they allegedly worked to disrupt illegal gambling dens, dance bars, and other activities associated with the underworld network in Mumbai.
Alleged Assassination Plot in Sharjah
One of the most discussed elements of Sapna Didi’s story is an alleged assassination attempt planned during a 1990s India-Pakistan cricket match in Sharjah. According to media reports, she intended to target Dawood Ibrahim at the high-profile event.
However, the alleged plan was reportedly leaked before it could be executed, preventing any attack.
Her Death in 1994
In 1994, Sapna Didi was allegedly attacked by individuals linked to Dawood Ibrahim’s network. Media reports claim she was stabbed multiple times, bringing a violent end to her life.
While her story has since become part of Mumbai’s crime folklore, historians and crime reporters note that much of the narrative is based on accounts from investigative books and journalistic sources rather than official court records.
Film Controversy: Family Objects to Romantic Angle
Even before its release, O Romeo faced controversy. A song titled “Hum Toh Tere Hi Liye” depicted a romantic relationship between Sapna Didi and Hussain Ustara.
Members of Hussain Ustara’s family publicly objected to the portrayal. In a media interview, his daughter stated that Sapna Didi was treated like a sister by her father and that the film misrepresents their relationship.
She reportedly said her father helped Sapna Didi when she had no family support after her husband’s death. According to her, the two collaborated against criminal elements, but there was no romantic involvement.
The filmmakers have maintained that the movie is a dramatized adaptation inspired by published accounts and is not intended to serve as a documentary.
